Bob Kingsley to be Honored with President's Award at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony Feb. 21

Bob Kingsley to be Honored with President's Award at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony Feb. 21

 

(Nashville, Tenn. – Dec. 12, 2011)  Country Radio Seminar has announced radio veteran Bob Kingsley as the CRS 2012 President’s Award recipient.

The President's award will be presented during the Country Radio Hall of Fame Dinner and Awards ceremony, held on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, at 6 p.m. CST in the Nashville Convention Center Ballroom.  The event also serves as the unofficial kick-off to Country Radio Seminar, held Feb. 22-24.

The President's Award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the marketing, production, growth and development of the Country Radio Seminar and the multiple services that Country Radio Seminar provides to the Country radio and music communities.

“Without the hard work and innovation of Bob Kingsley, Country radio today would be very different,” says CRS President Mike Culotta.  “Bob Kingsley has been an avid supporter of Country radio, and he has been the most consistent advocate of Country Radio Seminar throughout its history.  We are excited to present Bob with this year’s CRS President’s Award.”

As previously announced, the 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame inductees are Beverlee Brannigan, Moby, Ron Rogers, Eddie Stubbs, Rusty Walker and Bill Whyte.

About Bob Kingsley:
Bob Kingsley is the host and executive producer of “Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40.”  A two-time winner of CMA’s National Broadcast Personality of the Year award, Kingsley has also received Billboard’s Network/Syndicated Program of the Year award a remarkable 16 times.  He was chosen as ACM’s National Broadcast Personality of the Year in 2007 and was voted National Air Personality of the Year in 2009 and 2010 by Country Radio Seminar and Country Aircheck.  After serving as host and producer of the iconic “American Country Countdown” radio show since 1978, Kingsley launched his Country Top 40 program in 2006.  He continues to produce and host specials like his highly popular “Christmas in America” special and an annual, year-end countdown show.  Kingsley was inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame in 1998.

About Country Radio Seminar:
Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio.  CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center.  Visit  www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information.  Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

 

CRS 2012 President’s Award recipient Bob Kingsley

 

2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

Oct 24, 2011 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees Announced (Nashville, Tenn. – Oct. 24, 2011) Beverlee Brannigan, Moby, Ron Rogers, Eddie Stubbs, Rusty Walker and Bill Whyte are the 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame inductees. Beverlee Brannigan, Ron Rogers and Rusty Walker are the 2012 Radio category inductees, and Moby, Eddie Stubbs and Bill Whyte are the On-Air category inductees.  The class of 2012 will be officially inducted at a dinner ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, at 6 p.m. CST inside the Nashville Convention Center. The Country Radio Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony unofficially kicks off Country Radio Seminar each year.  Lucchese Boots is a proud sponsor of the 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame and will be providing each inductee this year with a custom made pair of Lucchese Boots. The Country Radio Hall of Fame is dedicated to the recognition of those individuals who have made significant contributions to the radio industry over a 20-year period, 15 of which must be in the Country format.  CRS 2012 is held Feb. 22-24, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center.  Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information about CRS and the Country Radio Hall of Fame. About the 2012 Radio Inductees: Beverlee Brannigan – Beverlee Brannigan’s career began at the college radio station at Northwestern University.  She joined WOKQ as an air personality, and in 1979 became the Program Director/personality for KJJY, where she enjoyed tremendous success for the next 20 years.  Brannigan also programmed stations KRUU, KHKI and KMXM.  Since 2003, she has served as Operations Manager for six stations in Wichita and Program Director for three, including market leader KFDI, which won CMA Station of the Year in 2003.  Brannigan is widely considered by the industry to be a trailblazer for women in Country Radio programming. Ron Rogers – Ron Rogers began his broadcasting career at KTBC AM-FM-TV while a student at the University of Texas.  His lengthy career spans the entire spectrum of the radio business.  He has held positions as Program Director at WACO, Sales Manager at KNOW, General Manager at KOKE, and President/Co-Owner at KLAW, KVET and KASE.  He has served on numerous industry and community boards and is the recipient of several broadcasting and community awards.  He was inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame in 2004. Rusty Walker – Rusty Walker has either programmed, advised, created, consulted, overseen, served as a strategic partner or performed as an air personality for more than 750 Country radio stations since he started his radio career in 1970.  In total, there are fewer Country stations in rated markets that Walker hasn’t worked with than those he has.  A few of his personality and Program Director stints include: WQYK, WQIK, WZZK and KFKF.  He has been recognized with numerous national industry and community awards, including a seven-year consecutive run as Billboard’s Consultant of the Year.  His program consulting firm, Rusty Walker Programming, remains one of the industry’s most influential. About the 2012 On-Air Inductees: Moby – Moby is a 40-year veteran air personality whose career began at the age of 15 in his hometown of Crossville, Tenn.  For 10 years, he was a major force in the Rock format every morning in Houston and Dallas (KSSR, KLOL, KEGL).  Moby then moved to Atlanta and WKHX, where he proceeded to win a major morning battle in the Country format and enjoy success for the next decade.  Moby is the recipient of numerous national Air Personality awards, including winning Billboard's Major Market Country Morning Show of the Year five times.  He formed his own syndication company in 2004 and continues today to be heard on Country stations around the nation. Eddie Stubbs – Celebrated air personality Eddie Stubbs has been the longest tenured evening host on Nashville’s legendary 650AM WSM since the station went to an all Country format in 1979.  He is recognized nationally as the announcer of the Grand Ole Opry, a position he has held for more than 16 years.  He also serves as the on camera announcer for the Marty Stuart Show on RFD-TV and serves on the CMA and IBMA committees.  He won the CMA Large Market Broadcast Personality of the Year award in 2002.  Stubbs is well respected among his peers for his vast knowledge of the history of Country music. Bill Whyte – Bill started his career as a teenager on KCPR, “Kow Pasture Country Radio,” in Missouri.  His career spans successes at WUBE, WMIL, WSM-FM and WFMS.  He has won multiple national Air Personality awards, hosted syndicated shows, and is also a singer-songwriter. He has won numerous broadcast awards including the CMA Award for Best Large Market Personality.  He's been nominated for a CMA Award twice and won an AIR Award for best new Morning Show in Nashville. About Country Radio Seminar: Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio.  CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center.  Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information.  Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.  Connect with CRS via Twitter or on Facebook.

CRS Now Accepting Nominations For 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame

Aug 9, 2011 CRS Now Accepting Nominations For 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame

CRS Now Accepting Nominations For 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame Deadline for nominees to return applications to CRS offices is Sept. 9 (Nashville, Tenn. – Aug. 8, 2011) Country Radio Seminar has opened the nomination process for the 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame. Nominations can be submitted here at www.CountryRadioSeminar.com.  As nominations are processed, Country Radio Seminar officials will provide each nominee with an official application.  This application must be returned to the CRS offices no later than Friday, Sept. 9, 2011. “No other event highlights the accomplishments and contributions of those who have meant so much to the Country Radio industry than the annual Country Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony.  This is the time to be sure that worthy candidates are nominated and included in the process for 2012,” says CRS Hall of Fame Chairman Charlie Morgan. Nominees may include air-checks, press clippings, awards listings and other materials for consideration.  Applications received after Sept. 9 will be held for consideration for the 2013 Hall of Fame class.  A selection committee of Country radio and industry veterans, as well as members of the Country Radio Hall of Fame determines the Hall of Fame class each year. The 2012 Country Radio Hall of Fame Dinner and induction ceremony is held Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012, at the Nashville Convention Center. On-Air Personality Hall of Fame Criteria: * Must have at least a 20 year on-air career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format. * Significant contributions to the growth and development in the Country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of Country music as an art form. Radio Hall of Fame Criteria: * Must have at least a 20 year career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format. * Significant contributions to the growth and development of the Country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of Country music as an art form. About Country Radio Seminar: Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas and business practices in the Country music industry, with specific emphasis on issues relevant to Country radio.  CRS 2012 will be held Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville, Tenn., at the Nashville Convention Center.  Visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com for more information.  Country Radio Seminar is a property of Country Radio Broadcasters.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Inducts 2011 Class Into Country Radio Hall of Fame

Mar 2, 2011 Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Inducts 2011 Class Into Country Radio Hall of Fame

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Inducts 2011 Class Into Country Radio Hall of Fame   (Nashville, Tenn. – March 2, 2011) The 2011 class of the Country Radio Hall of Fame was officially inducted last night, March 1, at a sold-out ceremony and dinner held inside the Nashville Convention Center. Dale Carter, Barry Kent and Lee Rogers were inducted in the On-Air Personality category, while Charlie Cook, Dene Hallam (posthumous) and Bill Payne were the three Radio inductees.  Other awards presented during the ceremony included the CRB Career Achievement Award, given to The Judds, and the CRB President’s Award, presented to Joe Galante. The Country Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremonies unofficially kick off Country Radio Seminar each year.  CRS 2011 is held March 2-4 in Nashville, Tenn.  For more information, visit www.CRB.org. The 2011 class of the Country Radio Hall of Fame, President's Award winner and Career Achievement Award winners.  Top row L to R: Bill Payne, Charlie Cook, Joe Galante (President's Award), Naomi Judd of The Judds (Career Achievement Award), Barry Kent, Dale Carter, Lee Rogers.  Bottom row, L to R: Country Aircheck's R.J. Curtis, the three daughters of Dene Hallam, CRB President Mike Culotta and CRB Executive Director Bill Mayne.  Not pictured: Wynonna Judd.  Photo: Bev Moser.

CRB, Inc. to Honor The Judds, Joe Galante at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony March 1

Nov 29, 2010 CRB, Inc. to Honor The Judds, Joe Galante at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony March 1

CRB, Inc. to Honor The Judds, Joe Galante at Country Radio Hall of Fame Ceremony March 1 Hall of Fame tickets now on sale at CRB.org (Nashville, TN – Nov. 29, 2010)  Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced legendary mother-daughter duo The Judds as its 2011 CRB Career Achievement Award recipient and industry executive Joe Galante as the recipient of the CRB President’s Award. The awards are presented each year at the Country Radio Hall of Fame Dinner and Awards ceremony.  This year’s awards are held on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at 6 p.m. CST in the Nashville Convention Center Ballroom.  The event also serves as the unofficial kick-off to Country Radio Seminar, held March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville, Tenn. The CRB Career Achievement Award is presented to an individual artist or act that has made a significant contribution to the development and promotion of Country music and Country radio through their creativity, vision, performance or leadership.  The 2011 CRB Career Achievement Award recipient is The Judds. “Since their arrival on the Country music scene in the early ‘80s, The Judds have been trailblazers, trendsetters and hit-makers, and they are still entertaining millions of fans around the world with their music,” says CRB President Mike Culotta.  “Country radio would not be the same without these two fantastic ladies, and because of that, we are honoring them with the CRB Career Achievement Award.” The President's Award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the marketing, production, growth and development of the Country Radio Seminar and the multiple services that Country Radio Broadcasters provides to the Country radio and music communities.  The 2011 President’s Award recipient is Joe Galante. “Very few people have made as much of an impact in our industry as Joe Galante,” says CRB President Mike Culotta.  “The acts that he has worked with during his almost 40 years in the business have also been some of Country radio’s biggest superstars.  He has always been a friend to Country radio, and I have a feeling there are plenty more great things ahead for him in this business.  It’s an honor to announce Joe Galante as our 2011 President’s Award recipient.” The 2011 Country Radio Hall of Fame inductees are Dale Carter, Barry Kent and Lee Rogers in the On-Air Personality category and Charlie Cook, Dene Hallam and Bill Payne in the Radio category. Advance ticket prices for the Hall of Fame ceremony and dinner are $100 for CRS 2011 registrants and $110 for non-registrants.  The $125 on-site ticket price goes into effect on Feb. 15, 2011.  Tickets are on sale now at www.CRB.org. About The Judds: Kentucky natives, The Judds, are one of the most successful Country music duos of all time, amassing 14 No. 1 hits and more than 60 industry awards, including multiple CMA, ACM and GRAMMY awards.  After launching their career with Curb/RCA Records in 1984, The Judds sold 20 million albums in just six years.  By 1989, The Judds were one of the top-grossing and most popular touring acts in America.  Unfortunately, at the height of their career, Naomi Judd announced her impending retirement due to health complications.  Their subsequent tour sold more concert tickets than any artist that year except for The Grateful Dead and The Rolling Stones.  The pair reunited on Dec. 31, 1999, for a New Year’s Eve show, prompting a successful reunion tour in 2000.  After a performance and encouragement from their fans at the 2009 CMA Music Festival, the duo decided to tour one last time for their 2010 tour, The Judds: The Last Encore.  Visit www.thejuddstour2010.com for more information. Earlier this year, the duo partnered with The Oprah Winfrey Network to launch an original television series that documents their preparations for their Last Encore tour.  The show is scheduled to debut in 2011. About Joe Galante: Joe Galante began his career in the music business with RCA Records in New York in 1971, arriving in Nashville two years later as manager of administration.  Galante’s rise saw him become the youngest man to lead a major Nashville label when he took over as head of RCA Nashville in 1982.  In 1990, he was named president of RCA Records in New York, returning to Nashville four years later as chairman of RCA Label Group/Nashville, encompassing the RCA and BNA labels and adding the Arista Nashville imprint in 2000.  Six years later, welcoming Columbia Nashville as its fourth imprint, the label group became Sony BMG Nashville, adopting the Sony Music Nashville name in 2009. In April of 2010, after 39 years within the same label family, Galante announced his decision to step down from his post as chairman of Sony Music Nashville.  Across a remarkable tenure, Galante helped launch the careers of Alabama, Clint Black, Kenny Chesney, Sara Evans, The Judds, Lonestar, Martina McBride, K.T. Oslin, Kellie Pickler, Carrie Underwood, Keith Whitley, Chris Young and many more, while his leadership bolstered the careers of such superstars as Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert and Brad Paisley. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format.  More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at (615) 327-4487. About CRS: The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the Country music industry.  Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.  CRS 2011 will be held March 2-4, 2011, in Nashville, Tenn.  Registration is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at (615) 327-4487.

CRB, Inc. Requests Items for Country Radio Hall of Fame Online Auctions

Nov 22, 2010 CRB, Inc. Requests Items for Country Radio Hall of Fame Online Auctions

CRB, Inc. Requests Items for Country Radio Hall of Fame Online Auctions Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® is currently requesting music memorabilia items for its annual Country Radio Hall of Fame online auctions. The auctions are one of the primary ways CRB raises funds each year for the Country Radio Hall of Fame.  The first round of auctions is currently open at www.CountryMusicMarketplace.com.  Items for the second round are due at CRB no later than Friday, Dec. 17, 2010. Previous year’s submissions have included gold records, autographed memorabilia and instruments, meet and greet opportunities, flyaway concert packages and dinners with artists.  Each year, the Country Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony unofficially kicks off Country Radio Seminar in downtown Nashville. CRS 2011 is held March 2-4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center. Securely packaged auction items may be hand-delivered or mailed to the CRB offices at 819 18th Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37203.  For additional information, please contact Chasity Crouch at the CRB offices at chasity@crb.org or (615) 327-4487. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format.  More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces 2011 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees

Nov 1, 2010 Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces 2011 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces 2011 Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees Deadline for advance rate Hall of Fame tickets is Feb. 15 (Nashville, TN – Nov. 1, 2010) CRB, Inc.® has announced Dale Carter, Charlie Cook, Dene Hallam, Barry Kent, Bill Payne and Lee Rogers as its 2011 class to be inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame. Dale Carter, Barry Kent and Lee Rogers are the 2011 On-Air Personality inductees.  Charlie Cook, Dene Hallam and Bill Payneare the Radio inductees.  The class of 2011 will be officially instated at a dinner ceremony on Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center. Advance ticket prices for the Hall of Fame ceremony and dinner are $100 for CRS 2011 registrants and $110 for non-registrants.  The $125 on-site ticket price goes into effect after Feb. 15, 2011.  Tickets are on sale now at www.CRB.org. “The quality and quantity of applicants for the Hall of Fame is truly amazing.  It is a great reminder of the impact and legacy that so many talented people have made through their careers in Country radio.  We are thrilled to honor six such deserving individuals at this year's Hall of Fame dinner,” says Chairman of the Country Radio Hall of Fame, Charlie Morgan. The Country Radio Hall of Fame dinner and induction ceremony unofficially kicks off Country Radio Seminar each year.  CRS 2011 is March 2-4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center. To purchase tickets to the dinner and induction ceremony, click here and download the registration form and return it to the Country Radio Broadcasters prior to February 2, 2010 or visit www.crb.org. About the 2011 On-Air Personality Inductees: Dale Carter – Dale Carter’s career in Country radio began in 1979 at WROZ in Evansville, Ind.  He moved to WKDQ during his college days at the University of Southern Indiana, then took a job at WYNG in 1984, becoming the station’s program director at only 21 years old.  The following year, he won the Beasley Group’s Program Director of the Year award.  In 1992, Carter moved to WWYZ in Hartford, Conn., where he programmed the station and worked on-air for the next three years before settling into his current position as PD and morning show co-host at KFKF in Kansas City, Mo.  He has been instrumental in KFKF’s charity efforts with St. Jude’s, raising more than $4 million since 1996.  Carter has previously served on the CRS agenda committee, CRB Board of Directors and served as Chairman of the Country DJ Hall of Fame Committee.  He has been nominated by the CMA eight times, once for Small Market Air Personality of the Year and seven times as Large Market Air Personality of the Year. He is currently a District 1 City Councilman in Blue Springs, Missouri, and the stadium voice for the Kansas City Chiefs. Barry Kent – A native of West Terre Haute, Ind., Barry began his radio career at WWVR in 1969 working for WPFR before moving to WBOW AM/FM the following year where he became known as “Rockin’ Barry Kent.”  In 1975, he became the station’s program director, and in 1980 WBOW-FM changed call letters to WBOQ and flipped to country. Kent moved to WTHI in 1982, where he served as program director and afternoon DJ.  In the late ‘80s, he switched to the morning show and has remained there ever since.  In 1989, the station bought WWVR, and Kent currently serves as operations manager of WTHI and WWVR, the first station he ever worked at.  WTHI has been a St. Jude station since 1990, raising more than $1 million for the hospital.  Kent hosts all 30 hours of the station’s St. Jude Radiothon. Lee Rogers – Lee Rogers has worked in the radio business for more than 40 years.  His first job in the Country format came in 1970 at KBAM in Longview, Wash.  His career includes stops at KMPS (Seattle, Wash.), K102 (Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn.), WQIK (Jacksonville, Fla.) and KCBQ (San Diego, Calif.).  For the last 13 years, Rogers has held the job as operations manager and morning show host at Portland, Oregon’s KUPL.  Combining his Country radio career with his love of live music, Rogers has toured and performed with artists including Ernest Tubb, Hank Snow, Don Gibson, Keith Whitley, Minnie Pearl, Dwight Yoakam and Charlie Daniels. About the 2011 Radio Inductees: Charlie Cook – Charlie Cook began his Country radio career in 1972 at WSDS in Ypsilanti, Mich.  In the ‘70s, Cook spent time at KLAK in Denver, Wheeling’s WWVA and WHN in New York.  He was named “DJ of the Year” by Billboard in 1977.  In 1980, he joined KHJ in Los Angeles, flipping the station to Country.  Cook then went to KLAC before joining McVay Media in 1983 as Sr. VP of Country Programming, where he consulted more than 40 Country stations over the next 12 years.  In 1996, Cook joined Westwood One as VP Programming/Formats, and in 2006 he joined Cumulus as VP Programming for the company’s 61 Country stations.  Los Angeles’ KKGO hired Cook as Sr. Manager of Country Programming in 2008.  Cook has previously served as president of both the ACM and CRB.  In 2010 he was awarded the CRB’s President’s Award. Dene Hallam – Dene Hallam (1954 – 2009) was one of only two programmers to win Billboard’s Program Director of the Year in two different formats (Country and Top 40).  His Country radio career began as a program director at WFEC in Harrisburg, Pa., in 1977.  Among the numerous stations Hallam programmed were New York City’s first FM Country station, WKHK, as well as WWWW (Detroit), WHN (New York), KKBQ (Houston), KYCY (San Francisco), WKHX (Atlanta) and WDAF (Kansas City).  In 2007, Hallam returned to Atlanta, where he served as program director for the “Moby in the Morning” network until his death in 2009.   While at KKBQ/Houston, Hallam was awarded Billboard’s Program Director of the Year award (Country format) in 1995. Bill Payne – Bill Payne began his professional radio career in 1951 at only 12 years old, spinning records on “Bill Payne’s Record Shop” on KWHP in Cushing, Okla.   By his early twenties, he had become an FM pioneer in Oklahoma, having built an operable radio station that broadcasted from inside his garage.  In 1977, he purchased Tulsa’s KTFX and changed the format to Country, becoming the first FM Country station in Tulsa.  Today, Payne owns five Country radio stations in Oklahoma, including KEOK/Tahlequah, KTLQ/Tahlequah, KITX/Hugo, KTNT/Eufaula and the relocated KTFX in Warner/Muskogee.  Payne’s KITX has been nominated nine times for Marconi awards and received numerous awards from the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters. The Country Radio Hall of Fame is dedicated to the recognition of those individuals who have made significant contributions to the radio industry over a 20-year period, 15 of which must be in the Country format. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format.  More information may be obtained at: www.crb.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

CRB, Inc. Now Accepting Nominations For 2011 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame

Jul 26, 2010 CRB, Inc. Now Accepting Nominations For 2011 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame

CRB, Inc. Now Accepting Nominations For 2011 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Deadline for nominees to return applications is Sept. 10   Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is now accepting nominations for the 2011 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame. Nominations can be submitted here at www.CRB.org.  Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. will provide each nominee with an official application, which must be returned to the CRB offices by Friday, Sept. 10, 2010.  Applications received after Sept. 10 are automatically held for consideration for the 2012 Hall of Fame class. “Through the years, Country radio has been blessed with many talented and dedicated professionals who genuinely care about the music they play, their audiences and their communities,” says CRB Hall of Fame Chairman Charlie Morgan.  “One of the many things that Country Radio Broadcasters is committed to doing is recognizing the contributions of these wonderful broadcasters.” Nominees may include air-checks, press clippings, awards listings and other materials with their applications for consideration.  Applications should be returned to the CRB offices at 819 18th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37203. Nominees cannot be current members of the Board or Agenda Committee of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.  A voting committee of Country radio and industry veterans determines the 2011 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame inductees. The 2011 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Dinner and Ceremony is held Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center. Country Music DJ Hall of Fame Criteria: * Must have at least a 20 year on-air career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format. * Significant contributions to the growth and development in the Country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of Country music as an art form. Country Radio Hall of Fame criteria: * Must have at least a 20 year career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format. * Significant contributions to the growth and development of the Country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of Country music as an art form. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure the vitality of the Country Radio format.  More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487. About CRS: The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the country music industry.  Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.  CRS 2011 will take place March 2-4, 2011, in downtown Nashville.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Inducts 2010 Class of Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame

Feb 25, 2010 Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Inducts 2010 Class of Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® inducted the 2010 class of the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame last night at a special ceremony at the Nashville Convention Center. Bill Bailey, Laurie DeYoung and Rudy Fernandez are the 2010 Country Music DJ inductees, while Dan Halyburton, Mike Hammond and Cy Blumenthal (posthumous) are the Country  Radio inductees.  The class of 2010 was instated at the dinner and awards ceremony that unofficially kicks off Country Radio Seminar each year.  Brooks & Dunn took home the CRB Career Achievement Award, and Charlie Cook received the CRB President’s Award.  Dierks Bentley was on hand with members of the McCoury family to perform a special acoustic version of Brooks & Dunn's "Red Dirt Road."  The surprise of the evening was an appearance by Taylor Swift, who introduced Radio Hall of Famer Mike Hammond. The 2010 class of the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame, pictured(l-r) Family of Cy Blumenthal, deceased (Radio), Dan Halaburton (Radio), Ronnie Dunn (Career Achievement), Laurie DeYoung (DJ), Kix Brooks (Career Achievement), Mike Hammond (Radio), Bill Bailey (DJ), Rudy Fernandez (DJ), Charlie Cook (Presidents Award Winner) The 2010 CRB Career Achievement Award winners, Brooks & Dunn, pose with Dierks Bentley (c), who performed the duo’s “Red Dirt Road” with members of the McCoury family.  Brooks & Dunn were honored with the award at the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame ceremonies at the Nashville Convention Center on Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010.  Photo: Bev Moser.

Dierks Bentley to Perform at 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Induction

Feb 25, 2010 Dierks Bentley to Perform at 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Induction

Performance to honor Brooks & Dunn Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. has announced Dierks Bentley will perform at the 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 23, at 6 p.m. in the Nashville Convention Center. Bentley will perform an acoustic tribute to Brooks & Dunn, who will receive CRB’s Career Achievement Award at the ceremony and dinner held inside the Renaissance Ballroom.  The legendary duo plan to retire after their “Last Rodeo” tour ends in August 2010. A longtime fan of Brooks & Dunn, Bentley traveled Down Under to tour with the pair in May 2009 on their Australian tour.  On the closing night of their tour in Sydney, both Brooks & Dunn and Bentley were awarded the CMA’s International Artist Achievement Award for their contributions to Country music outside the United States. “Kix and Ronnie are the original modern day honkytonkers.  A lot of acts playing down on Lower Broadway try to emulate those guys,” said Bentley. “When we toured together, I watched their show every night from side-stage in total awe of the number of hits they’ve had and what they’ve built over the last few decades.  They’ve done it all.  I still can’t believe they’re about to retire.  In true B&D fashion, I have no doubt they’ll go out in a BIG way and leave us wanting more.  I’m honored the CRB asked me to help recognize them and their huge contribution to our format.” Adds R.J. Curtis, Chairman of the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame, “Dierks Bentley is one of Country’s brightest young stars, and an artist that certainly appreciates the legacy that Brooks & Dunn has left for others to follow.  We expect Dierks to give an entertaining and fitting performance as we honor Brooks & Dunn with our Career Achievement Award.” Bill Bailey, Laurie DeYoung and Rudy Fernandez are this year’s 2010 Country Music DJ inductees, while Cy Blumenthal, Dan Halyburton and Michael Hammond will be inducted into the Country Music Radio Hall of Fame.  Charlie Cook will receive the CRB President’s Award. Ticket prices for the Hall of Fame ceremony are $90 for CRS registrants.  Non-registrant advance tickets are $100, and the on-site rate is $125.  Tickets are on sale now at www.CRB.org. The Country Music DJ Hall of Fame (founded in 1974) is dedicated to the recognition of those individuals who have made significant contributions to the Country radio industry over a 20-year period.  Induction into the Country Music Radio Hall of Fame (founded in 2000) follows the same 20-year criteria. Tickets are available for invited guests of inductees, sponsors and Country Radio Seminar registrants.  Contact the CRB office at 615-327-4487 for updated ticket information and availability. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format.  More information may be obtained at: www.crb.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

CMTAuctions.com Adds Final Items, Tickets for Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Auction

Feb 25, 2010 CMTAuctions.com Adds Final Items, Tickets for Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Auction

Tickets for CRS Events plus Autographed Items from Garth, Carrie, Merle, More CMTAuctions.com has posted its final round of auction items this year for the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame, including tickets to see Taylor Swift, Reba and more. In partnership with Country Music Television, Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. raises funds each year for the Hall of Fame through its online auctions held at www.CMTAuctions.com.  Items currently available for bidding include tickets to see artists at this year’s CRS 2010 (Feb. 24-26), such as Taylor Swift (Music City Jam™), Gloriana/Randy Houser/Love and Theft/Justin Moore/Chris Young (New Faces of Country Music Show®), Eric Church and Emily West (Capitol luncheon) and Sugarland/Vince Gill/Billy Currington/Josh Turner/Jamey Johnson and more (Universal Music Group luncheon).  Tickets to see upcoming shows from Reba, Jewel, and Jack Ingram are also available for bidding. Additional items to be added to the current auction include autographed memorabilia from Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Charlie Daniels, Merle Haggard and more. “This year’s auction items include meet-and-greets, tickets to exclusive events, and rare collectibles from some of the biggest superstars in Country music,” says CRB Hall of Fame Chairman RJ Curtis.  “We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to CMT and all of the artists and labels for their generosity and commitment to the continued vitality of the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame.  Their efforts make the preservation of our genre possible.” The current CRB auction remains open through Feb. 16, 2010 at 5 p.m. CST.  Visit www.CMTAuctions.com for more items and auction listing details. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format.  More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced the 2010 inductees into the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame.

Nov 2, 2009 Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced the 2010 inductees into the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced the 2010 inductees into the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame. Bill Bailey, Laurie DeYoung and Rudy Fernandez are the 2010 Country Music DJ inductees, while Cy Blumenthal, Dan Halyburton and Michael Hammond will be inducted into the Country Music Radio Hall of Fame. The class of 2010 will be officially instated at a dinner ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010, at the Nashville Convention Center. Ticket prices for the Hall of Fame ceremony are $90 for CRS registrants. Non-registrant advance tickets are $100, and the on-site rate is $125. Tickets are on sale now at www.CRB.org. “CRB is proud to welcome these six very deserving members to the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame. The 2010 inductees are a diverse group of dedicated broadcasters who embody the most important criteria for induction, by having made significant contributions to the Country radio and music industry. On behalf of the Hall of Fame Committee, I congratulate each and every honoree,” says R.J. Curtis, Chairman of the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame. About the 2010 Country Music DJ Hall of Fame Inductees: Bill Bailey – Bill Bailey started his radio career in 1956 as a high school student in Temple, Texas. Bailey spent the majority of his career at KIKK (Pasadena/Houston, Texas) and KENR (Houston), but also spent time at KTAE (Taylor, Texas), KELP (El Paso, Texas), KATR (Corpus Christi, Texas), KIOA (Des Moines, Iowa), WPEO (Peoria, Ill.) and KTHT (Houston). He was awarded Billboard and Bill Gavin Radio Conference’s Country Radio Program Director of the Year in 1970 and later won CMA’s Large Market Disc Jockey of the Year in 1979. Bailey holds the distinct honor of sending the first Country music to the moon when he gave a cassette tape to the astronauts aboard Apollo XII in 1969. Laurie DeYoung – A 24-year veteran of WPOC in Baltimore, Md., Laurie DeYoung won the CMA Large Market Personality of the Year award in 1994. She began her career at WMUZ (Detroit, Mich.) in 1975, with stints at WSHN (Fremont, Mich.), WYGR, WCUZ, WLAV, WTWN and WKLQ (Grand Rapids, Mich.) and KBST (San Diego, Calif.) before arriving at WPOC in 1985. During her career in Baltimore, DeYoung has been nominated for multiple Billboard, R&R and CMA awards. She hosts her own morning program at WPOC, which was awarded CMA’s Large Market Station award in 1991 and 1992. DeYoung also hosted “New Country Video” on Maryland Public Television for seven years. Rudy Fernandez – Rudy Fernandez began his radio career in 1973, but moved into the Country format in 1978 at KEAN in Abilene, Texas. Besides a brief stint at WIBW (Topeka, Kan.) in 2002-03, Fernandez has been with KEAN for a total of 31 years. He is a prominent participant in fundraising and charity events, helping raise more than $1.5 million to date. Some of his fundraising stunts include riding a ferris wheel for five consecutive days, living in a van suspended by a crane, being buried alive in a coffin for 48 hours and being frozen in a block of ice for 48 hours. Fernandez was awarded the Gavin Music Director of the Year award in 1990, 1997 and 2001 and was recognized as R&R Drive-Time Dominator of the Year from 1996-1999. KEAN was awarded CMA’s Small Market Station of the Year in 1987. About the 2010 Country Music Radio Hall of Fame Inductees: Cy Blumenthal – Cy Blumenthal (1913-1983) was a pioneer in Country radio, becoming the first man to own a chain of Large Market radio stations in the Country format. His first acquisition was WARL in Arlington, Va., in 1951, followed by the purchase of WCMS (Norfolk, Va.) in 1954, WHMS (Memphis, Tn.) in 1955, KCKN (Kansas City, Kan.) in 1956 and WABB (Mobile, Ala.) in 1958. Blumenthal began his career in radio in Chester, Pa., in 1949, where he learned the radio business from his brother-in-law. Some of Blumenthal’s former staff includes Country Radio DJ Hall of Fame inductees Don Owens, Ted Cramer, Don Rhea and Joe Hoppel. Dan Halyburton – Dan Halyburton is a 39-year veteran of the radio business, currently heading up the Dallas-based new media and technology company, RadioTime, as President. A former Senior Vice President and Market Manager of Emmis Communications in New York, Halyburton began his career in 1970 at WWOK in Miami, Fla., with stops at WTVR (Richmond, Va.), WTCR (Huntington, W. Va.), WFMS (Indianapolis, Ind.), WDGY (Minneapolis, Minn.) and WQAM (Miami, Fla.) before arriving at Susquehanna Radio Corp. and KPLX/KLIF in Dallas, Texas, in 1981. He went on to a 25-year career with Susquehanna before leaving for Emmis in 2006. He has served on the CMA Board as Chairman and President, as well as the CRS Agenda Committee and the CRB Board. An active advocate of Internet streaming technologies, Halyburton has testified before the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives on behalf of radio broadcasters. Michael Hammond – Michael Hammond has enjoyed a 36-year career in the radio business with Citadel Broadcasting, currently serving as the company’s Director of Operations in Knoxville, Tenn. He began his radio career as a sophomore in high school, working at WBIR and WETE AM before joining WIVK (Knoxville, Tenn.) in 1973. Hammond also spent time at WKDA/WKDF (Nashville, Tenn.) and in 1989 began managing WZRR and WJOX (Birmingham, Ala.) before returning to WIVK in 1994. His many awards and accolades include Associated Press Broadcaster of the Year in 1980, CMA’s Program Director of the Year in 1987, the Edward R. Murrow award in 1996 and R&R’s Country Program Director of the Year in 2005. The Country Music DJ Hall of Fame (founded in 1974) is dedicated to the recognition of those individuals who have made significant contributions to the Country radio industry over a 20-year period. Induction into the Country Music Radio Hall of Fame (founded in 2000) follows the same 20-year criteria. Tickets are available for invited guests of inductees, sponsors and Country Radio Seminar registrants. Contact the CRB office at 615-327-4487 for updated ticket information and availability. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.crb.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

Radio Industry Alert: Deadline For 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Submissions is SEPTEMBER 18!

Aug 26, 2009 Radio Industry Alert: Deadline For 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Submissions is SEPTEMBER 18!

What: Approaching deadline for the 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Submissions. Criteria attached below. When: Sept. 18, 2009 Where: Submit applications at www.CRB.org/hof. Contact information for the nominee or their next of kin must be included. CRB, Inc. will contact that party with the appropriate information to complete the process. Who: The Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of country radio. Applications for eligible nominees, either living or deceased, may be submitted by anyone except current members of the Board or Agenda Committee of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Country Music DJ Hall of Fame Criteria: * Must have at least a 20 year on-air career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format. * Significant contributions to the growth and development in the country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of country music as an art form. Country Radio Hall of Fame Criteria: * Must have at least a 20 year career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format. * Significant contributions to the growth and development of the country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of country music as an art form.

CRB, Inc. Now Accepting Nominations For 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame

Jun 1, 2009 CRB, Inc. Now Accepting Nominations For 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame

Submit Nominations Now at www.CRB.org Nominations for induction into the Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame can now be made online at www.CRB.org. The Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of country radio. "The Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame honors long-term, outstanding achievements by country radio personalities and executives, each of whom have committed themselves to their community and the most enduring musical genre in America," says CRB Hall of Fame Chairman R.J. Curtis. "On behalf of CRB, I strongly urge our industry peers to nominate a deserving country radio professional for this prestigious honor." Applications for eligible nominees, either living or deceased, may be submitted by anyone. Contact information for the nominee or their next of kin must be included. CRB, Inc. will contact that party with the appropriate information to complete the process. Each nominee must then fill out an application, and may submit materials (air-checks, press clippings, awards listings, etc.) in support of the nomination. These materials must be received in the CRB offices (819 18th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37203) no later than September 18, 2009. Nominees cannot be current members of the Board or Agenda Committee of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. A voting committee of country radio and industry veterans will make all final decisions regarding inductees. Country Music DJ Hall of Fame Criteria: * Must have at least a 20 year on-air career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format. * Significant contributions to the growth and development in the country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of country music as an art form. Prior DJ Hall of Fame inductees include: Chuck Collier and Gerry House, Bill Cody, Coyote Calhoun, Charlie Douglas, Ralph Emery, Lon Helton, Rhubarb Jones, Bob Kingsley, Joe Ladd, Bob Mitchell, Billy Parker, Charlie Walker, and more. Country Radio Hall of Fame criteria: * Must have at least a 20 year career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format. * Significant contributions to the growth and development of the country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of country music as an art form. Prior Radio Hall of Fame inductees include: Bob McKay and Moon Mullins, Jaye Albright, Les Acree, Larry Daniels, Jonathan Fricke, Dan McKinnon, Bob Moody, Ed Salamon, and Mack Sanders. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure the vitality of the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487. About CRS: The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS-41 will take place Feb. 24-26, 2010 in downtown Nashville.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Announces 2009 Class of Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Members

Mar 4, 2009 Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Announces 2009 Class of Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Members

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. announced the 2009 class of Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame inductees last night at CRS-40 in downtown Nashville. Chuck Collier and Gerry House were inducted into the Country Music DJ Hall of Fame, and Bob McKay and Moon Mullins were selected as this year's Country Music Radio Hall of Fame inductees. Merle Haggard received the Career Achievement Award and Shelia Shipley Biddy was presented with the President's Award. Jack Ingram performed "Are the Good Times Really Over" and Emmylou Harris performed "Kern River" prior to Haggard's reception of the Career Achievement Award. From L to R: Hall of Fame Inductees Chuck Collier (DJ), Bob McKay (Radio), Moon Mullins (Radio), Shelia Shipley Biddy (President's Award) and Gerry House (DJ). Photo: Bev Moser From L to R: CRB Executive Director Ed Salamon, Jack Ingram, Merle Haggard, Emmylou Harris, guitarist Carl Jackson, CRB President Becky Brenner. Photo: Bev Moser

Merle Haggard and Shelia Shipley Biddy to be Honored at CRB, Inc. ® Hall of Fame Event

Nov 4, 2008 Merle Haggard and Shelia Shipley Biddy to be Honored at CRB, Inc. ® Hall of Fame Event

Merle Haggard and Shelia Shipley Biddy will be honored by the Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. at the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, March 3, 2009. Haggard will receive the Career Achievement Award, while Shipley Biddy will be presented with the President's Award.   The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Career Achievement Award is presented to an individual artist or act that, through their creativity, vision, performance or leadership has made a significant contribution to the development and promotion of country music and country radio. "What can I add to the long list of accomplishments that Merle Haggard has had during his illustrious career in country music?" said CRB President Becky Brenner. "Not only has he been a great friend to country radio, he's also recognized worldwide as one of the true ambassadors of the country genre."   Widely regarded as the working man's country singer, Merle Haggard became a genuine superstar in 1966, recording three Top Ten hits, including "Swinging Doors," "The Bottle Let Me Down" and "The Fugitive." That same year he was voted the Top Male Vocalist by the Academy of Country Music Awards. The following year he began a streak of 37 straight Top Ten hits, including 23 number one singles. He has released more than 65 albums since 1963 and was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2006 Grammys. A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Haggard is generally regarded as one of the originators of "the Bakersfield Sound" along with Buck Owens.  His most recent effort, the critically acclaimed The Bluegrass Sessions, was released in late 2007. He has been out on the road touring for much of 2008.   The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. President's Award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the marketing, production, growth and development of the Country Radio Seminar and the multiple services that Country Radio Broadcasters provides to the country radio and music communities. "Over the years many people have contributed to the growth and development of the Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Of those, one of the true standouts is Shelia Shipley Biddy, whose service to the Board and Agenda Committee of this organization has lasted well over a decade," says Brenner. "It is certainly a pleasure for me as President to recognize her with this prestigious award." "When I received the call from R. J. Curtis informing me of the board's decision to present me with the President's Award, I was overwhelmed with emotion and had to take a moment to compose myself," says Shipley Biddy. "Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is an organization I have been honored to serve and one that allows me to serve the two sides of the industry I love most - music and radio. Some of my fondest memories and learning experiences are tied to events that took place at CRS." Shelia Shipley Biddy is President of Stringtown Records and oversees the label's day-to-day operations, including marketing, artist development and promotion.  She works as an artist manager at Hallmark Direction Company overseeing the careers of Trent Willmon and Ray Scott. She has also held positions at Vivaton Records (Executive Vice President of National Promotion and Artist Development), Shipley Biddy Entertainment (President/CEO) and Decca Records (Senior Vice President and General Manager - the first woman to head a major label in Nashville), where she introduced artists such as Lee Ann Womack, Gary Allan and Rhett Akins to country audiences worldwide. Prior to her appointment at Decca, she served as Senior Vice President of National Promotion for MCA Records. During a ten-year period, the label saw more than 125 number one singles from artists such as Vince Gill, Steve Wariner, Patty Loveless, Trisha Yearwood, Mark Chesnutt, Tracy Byrd, The Mavericks, Wynonna, and David Lee Murphy. Tickets are available for the event, which will be held at the Renaissance Hotel Ballroom. Tickets are $85 with CRS registration. Single tickets may be purchased for $a105, while sponsored tables are $2100. Proceeds go to the DJ and Radio Hall of Fame. To purchase tickets, please contact the Country Radio Broadcasters at 615-327-4487 or visit www.crb.org.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Inductees

Oct 20, 2008 Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Announces Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Inductees

Chuck Collier and Gerry House will be inducted into the Country Music DJ Hall of Fame, while Bob McKay and Moon Mullins are the Country Music Radio Hall of Fame inductees.  The group will be officially instated at a dinner ceremony on Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at the Nashville Renaissance Hotel. "The 2009 Hall of Fame class is a stellar list of radio professionals who perfectly match the criteria for the Country DJ and Radio Halls of fame," said R&R Country Editor and Chairman of the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame R.J. Curtis. "Each has made a 'significant contribution to the growth and development of country radio.'  On behalf of CRB, I'm proud to welcome these four deserving inductees to their rightful place." About the 2009 Country Music DJ Hall of Fame Inductees: Chuck Collier has spent more than thirty years in the Country format and more than 36 years at WGAR (Cleveland, OH).  His radio career began in 1963 at WSRW (Hillsboro, OH) and includes positions with WMWM (Wilmington, OH), WONE (Dayton, OH), WSAI (Cincinnati, OH) and WCBS (New York, NY). In 2005, Collier was inducted into the Radio-TV Broadcasters' Hall of Fame of Ohio.  In 2007, he was honored with the National Association of Broadcasters' Marconi Award for Large Market Personality of the Year.  He currently serves as Music Director and Afternoon Air Personality at WGAR. Gerry House is among the most decorated Country radio personalities of all time.  House began his radio career at WBCR (Maryville, TN) but joined WSIX-AM (Nashville, TN) in 1975 and moved to WSIX-FM in the early '80s.  In 1985, he moved his show to WSM (Nashville, TN) and then to KLAC (Los Angeles, CA) before returning to WSIX-FM. In 2008, the Gerry House and the House Foundation morning show on WSIX won Personality of the Year awards from the Country Music Association, the Academy of Country Music and Radio & Records.  He has also received the National Association of Broadcasters' Marconi Award and Leadership Music's Dale Franklin Award.  House is also an accomplished songwriter, having written "The Big One" (George Strait), "Little Rock" (Reba McEntire) and "On The Side Of Angels" (LeAnn Rimes). About the 2009 Country Music Radio Hall of Fame Inductees: Bob McKay has programmed Country stations in major markets for over three decades.  His career started in 1965 at Armed Forces Radio before becoming the evening air personality at WKY (Oklahoma City, OK), where Garth Brooks was one of his many listeners.  He also held positions at WIXZ (Cleveland, OH) and WDAE (Tampa Bay, FL). In 1975, he took his first programming job as Assistant PD and Morning Air Personality of KRKE (Albuquerque, NM), followed by positions at KQEO and KLEO (Wichita, KS).  In 1978 he became Program Director at WBCS (Milwaukee, WI) and was hired in 1980 to switch legendary San Diego, CA Top 40 station KCBQ to the Country format.  In 1984 he was hired as Program Director of WKIS (Miami, FL) before transferring to Beasley Broadcasting's WXTU (Philadelphia, PA) in 2000. Moon Mullins was named one of Country Radio's five most influential programmers in 1988.  His radio career began in 1961 at KKAZ (Denver City, TX) and includes early stops at KLLL (Lubbock, TX) and KCKN (Kansas City, MO).  In 1969 he took his first Program Director position at KFDI (Wichita, KS), followed by PD positions at WINN (Louisville, KY), WDAF (Kansas City, MO) and WHN (New York, NY). In 1991 he became a consultant with the Pollack Media Group and in 1994 founded First Track of Nashville, a music research company.  He founded the Moon Mullins Company in 1995 and became Group Country Program Director for the Journal Broadcasting Group in 1999.  In 2005 he took a position as Operations Manager for WBKR and WOMI (Owensboro, KY) and co-host of the morning show on WBKR. The Country Music DJ Hall of Fame (founded 1974) is dedicated to the recognition of those individuals who have made significant contributions to the country radio industry over a twenty-five year period.  Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is proud to be the trustee of the institution.  Induction into the Radio Hall of Fame (founded 2000) requires the same twenty-five year criteria. Tickets are available for invited guests of inductees, sponsors and Country Radio Seminar registrants.  Contact the CRB office at 615-327-4487 for updated ticket information and availability. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format.  More information may be obtained at: www.crb.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.

Eligibility Criteria Revised for Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame

Aug 4, 2008 Eligibility Criteria Revised for Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame

The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. has revised the criteria for the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame to allow consideration of individuals whose radio careers began less than twenty-five years ago. Country music DJs and other radio personnel who have worked in any radio format for at least twenty years will now be eligible, as long as they have worked at least fifteen years in the country format. Previously, the nominees' career in this format had to begin at least twenty-five years ago. "This change will allow those industry veterans who may have made a more recent impact in country radio to be considered for our genre's highest honor," says Radio and Records' Country Editor R.J. Curtis, who also serves as Chair of the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Committee. Adds CRB President Becky Brenner, "We wanted to acknowledge that career paths have changed, and new media exposure makes it easier to have an impact in a much shorter period of time now." To be eligible for consideration, a nominee: Must have worked at least 20 years in radio, minimum of 15 in the country format; Made a significant contribution to the growth and development of country radio, Made a significant contribution to the preservation and enhancement of country music as an art form, and Cannot be a current member of the Board or Agenda Committee of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. Anyone may nominate a qualified individual for the Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame by filling out a nomination form under the 'Hall of Fame' tab at www.crb.org. Nominees will then be sent an application which must be received by the CRB (819 18th Ave. South, Nashville, TN 37203) by Sept. 15, 2008 to be considered for the 2009 induction. The Country Music DJ Hall of Fame (founded 1974) is dedicated to the recognition of those individuals who have made significant contributions to the country radio and country music industry. Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is proud to be the trustee of this institution. Previous DJ inductees include: Bill Cody, Coyote Calhoun, Charlie Douglas, Ralph Emery, Lon Helton, Rhubarb Jones, Bob Kingsley, Joe Ladd, Bob Mitchell, Billy Parker and Charlie Walker. Previous Radio inductees include: Jaye Albright, Les Acree, Larry Daniels, Jonathan Fricke, Dan McKinnon, Bob Moody, Ed Salamon and Mack Sanders. About CRB: The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure the vitality of the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.crb.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487. About CRS: The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.

Nominations Now Open For 2009 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Awards

Jun 3, 2008 Nominations Now Open For 2009 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Awards

Nominations Now Open For 2009 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Awards  Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® Accepting Submissions at www.crb.org The Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of country radio. Anyone can submit applications for eligible nominees, either living or deceased. The nominator MUST provide contact information for the nominee or the nominee's next of kin. CRB, Inc. will contact that party with the appropriate information to complete the process. Each nominee then must fill out an application, and may submit materials (air-checks, press clippings, awards listings, etc.) in support of the nomination. These materials MUST be received in the CRB offices (819 18th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37203) no later than September 15th, 2008. "These awards honor those individuals who have worked tirelessly to make lasting contributions to country music radio and our industry," says CRB Hall of Fame Chairman RJ Curtis. "If you know someone that is worthy of recognition, please submit your nomination today at www.crb.org." Award recipients cannot be current members of the Board or Agenda Committee of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. A voting committee of country radio and industry veterans will make all final decisions regarding inductees. Plaques commemorating recipients of these awards are on display in the walkway between the Renaissance Hotel and the Nashville Convention Center. Country Music DJ Hall of Fame Criteria: On air career beginning at least twenty-five years ago. Significant contribution to the growth and development in the country radio industry and ongoing contribution to the preservation and enhancement of country music as an art form. Prior inductees include: Bill Cody (2008), Coyote Calhoun, Charlie Douglas, Ralph Emery, Lon Helton, Rhubarb Jones, Bob Kingsley, Joe Ladd, Bob Mitchell, Billy Parker, and Charlie Walker. Country Radio Hall of Fame criteria: Radio career beginning at least twenty-five years ago. Contributions to the growth and development of the country radio industry and the preservation and enhancement of country music as an art form. Prior inductees include: Jaye Albright (2008), Les Acree, Larry Daniels, Jonathan Fricke, Dan McKinnon, Bob Moody, Ed Salamon, and Mack Sanders. *** Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters together from around the world to ensure the continued vitality of the Country Radio format. This is accomplished through the exchange of ideas and education efforts at the annual Country Radio Seminar convention. The 2009 Country Radio Seminar (CRS-40®) will take place March 4 - 6 at the Nashville Convention Center. Complete seminar registration may be obtained by contacting CRB, Inc. at 615-327-4487 or by visiting www.crb.org. On site registration is now available. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® Announces DJ Hall of Fame and Radio Hall of Fame Inductees

Oct 24, 2007 Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® Announces DJ Hall of Fame and Radio Hall of Fame Inductees

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® Announces DJ Hall of Fame and Radio Hall of Fame Inductees    The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® has announced this year's Country Music DJ Hall of Fame and Country Music Radio Hall of Fame Inductees.  Bill Cody and Bob Robbins will be inducted into the Country Music DJ Hall of Fame. Jaye Albright, Bobby Kraig, and Michael Owens are to be inducted into the Country Music Radio Hall of Fame.  "Part of the criteria for induction to the Country DJ and Radio Hall of Fame is making a significant contribution to the country radio industry. Each of our 2008 inductees not only meet that criteria, but have exceeded it. This year’s class is a who’s who of difference makers. On behalf of the HoF selection committee, and the CRB Board of Directors, I’m honored to not only congratulate each inductee, but welcome them to their rightful place in the Hall of Fame," stated R.J. Curtis of Radio and Records and Chairman of the Country DJ and Radio Hall of Fame Committee.  The honorees are to be inducted into the Country Music DJ Hall of Fame and Country Radio Hall of Fame during a dinner ceremony on Tuesday, March 4th, 2008 at the Nashville Convention Center.     The Country Music DJ Hall of Fame (founded 1974) is dedicated to the recognition of those individuals who have made significant contributions to the country radio industry over a twenty five year period. Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is proud to be the trustee of the institution. Criteria for the Radio Hall of Fame (founded in 2000) is similar to the DJ Hall of Fame in that it requires the nominee's Radio career be over a 25 year span.   Tickets are currently only available to invited guests of inductees, sponsors, and Country Radio Seminar registrants.  Interested parties may contact the CRB office at 615-327-4487 for updated ticket information and availability.   ABOUT THE INDUCTEES:   Country Music DJ Hall of Fame Inductees: Bill Cody, WSM-AM Morning Show host, is recognized as one of the most familiar voices and faces in the industry.  He began his career in Country radio at WLBN (Lebanon, KY) in 1971.   Six years later, he accepted an air personality position at Contemporary formatted WVLK (Lexington, KY). Two years later, he joined WHAS (Louisville, KY).  In 1985, he returned to the Country music format and became morning air personality at Country station WCII (Louisville, KY), but that same year moved to WHOO-FM (Orlando, FL) in a similar capacity. In 1987, he took on a position at KKYX-AM (San Antonio TX).  He joined WSM-AM (Nashville, TN) in 1994, and from 1996-2000 served with WSM-FM (Nashville, TN). He hosted WSM’s 75th Annual birthday coverage from the Ryman Auditorium interviewing President George W. Bush and his father former President George Bush. He emceed the 2001 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame induction dinner and is known as host of Jones Radio Network's GAC’s Classic Country Weekend With Bill Cody and Great American Country’s daily show GAC's Master Series.   Bob Robbins has been recognized as the number one disc jockey in Little Rock for over 20 years, leading his station to win a number of industry awards.  His career started in Little Rock at Top 40 powerhouse KAAY (Little Rock, AR) in 1967.  He moved to KSSN-FM  (Little Rock, AR) at the station’s inception in 1979 and was named CMA Broadcast Personality of the Year in 1996. KSSN-FM’s awards include: 1990 NAB Marconi Award (Best Medium Market Station), 1990 Arkansas Broadcasters’ Association Most Admired Station, 1991 Billboard Country Radio Station of the Year, 1991 CMA Station of the Year, and 1996 NAB Marconi Award (Medium Market Station of the Year).  He remains at KSSN-FM (Little Rock, AR) as morning air personality   Country Radio Hall of Fame Inductees: Jaye Albright has consulted hundreds of Country radio stations and broadcast companies throughout the United States and Canada. She won her first award in 1964 as Production Director of WCUE (Cuyahoga Falls, OH) for one of the Ten Best Local Commercials in America as determined by the Radio Advertising Bureau.  After a career in local radio which included two years as Program Director of KHOS (Tucson, AZ), three years as morning personality and Operations Manager at KUZZ/KUXX (Bakersfield CA), and a year as morning personality and Program Director for KEEN (San Jose, CA) she became National Programming Consultant for Drake-Chenault Enterprises. In 1984, she returned to local radio as Program Director of KMPS (Seattle, WA).  She has served on the Country Radio Broadcasters’ Board of Directors and the Country Radio Seminar Agenda Committee as well as the Country Music Association Board of Directors.  Jaye is partner in Albright & O’Malley Country Consulting/RadioIQ.   Bobby Kraig was an integral part of building one of America’s most successful Country radio stations, KPLX (Dallas, TX). Under his leadership, it dominated in ratings and industry awards and at one point was the most listened to Country station in America.  He attended Brown Institute of Broadcasting in 1971-1972.  While working at a pirate radio station in St. Paul, MN, he began his Country career at WHSM (Hayward,WI). After two years he moved to WCCM (Brazil, IN). In 1973, he played the first Country record at WTHI (Terre Haute, IN) where he stayed for four years. In 1977, he became morning air personality and Program Director at WONE (Dayton, OH) and in 1979 returned to WTHI.  He became Program Director of KPLX (Dallas, TX) and held that position until 1993. During that time he was awarded Program Director of The Year by Billboard Magazine in 1987, 1989, 1990 and 1991. In 1990, he received the same award from the Country Music Association.  He left radio to join Arista Nashville in 1993 and under his leadership, Arista Nashville was named Country Music Label of the Year several times by various trade publications and he was named Promotion Executive of the Year. Due to health reasons, Bobby stepped down as VP/Promotion in 2005.   Michael Owens was General Manager of Country station KNIX, which was consistently number one in the Phoenix market and won many prestigious awards including honors from the Country Music Association, The Academy of Country Music, Billboard Magazine, and the Marconi Award for excellence in broadcasting. His Country radio career started in 1965 as a janitor and weekend announcer. Two years later he was a fulltime announcer. From 1969 to 1974, he was Associate Producer for a syndicated Country television show. In 1974, he became General Manager of KUZZ/KZIN/KKXX (Bakersfield, CA). From 1978 through 1999, Owens was Vice President/General Manager for Owens Broadcasting Company, a company which included KNIX radio and was founded by his father, Buck Owens. He started a a monthly publication, Country Spirit, and launched the Real Country satellite radio network, which at one time had more than 160 affiliate stations.  Michael is still part owner of KUZZ and KCWR in Bakersfield.   ***   The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music industry for the purpose of ensuring the continued vitality of the Country Radio format. They do this by idea sharing and education through an annual convention called the Country Radio Seminar. Complete seminar registration and hotel information may be obtained by contacting CRB, Inc. at 615-327-4487 or by visiting www.crb.org. On site registration is now available. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.  Early bird registration is available online at http://www.crb.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters offices at 615-327-4487.   ____________________   CRS-39 March 5-7, 2008 Nashville Convention Center 601 Commerce Street Nashville, TN 37203 Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of the County Radio Broadcasters, Inc.